Joint simulator testing machine - A testing apparatus for a joint includes a support structure for engaging a first part a joint, an adapter for engaging a second part of the joint, a load assembly coupled with the adapter for applying a load onto the adapter and a drive assembly coupled with the adapter. Operation of the drive assembly causes angulation and rotation of the adapter relative to the support structure, which in turn causes angulation and rotation of the first and second parts of the joint relative to one another.

08-28-2008

20120031193

IDENTIFICATION OF LOADS ACTING ON AN OBJECT - Structural health monitoring systems can be limited to a minimum number of sensors due to cost, complexity, and weight restrictions. Some embodiments described herein pertain to a load and damage identification techniques that utilize one sensor. Several passive force estimation techniques are presented. Some techniques use either the shape or the amplitude of the magnitude of the applied force in the frequency domain. Several techniques iteratively reduce an underdetermined set of equations of motion into many overdetermined systems of equations to solve for the force estimates. The techniques are shown to locate and quantify impulsive impacts with over 97% accuracy and non-impulsive impacts with at least 87% accuracy. Impacts not acting at a specific input degree of freedom are also accurately located depending on the distance away from the modeled input degrees of freedom, and damaging impact forces are quantified by making assumptions about the impulsive nature of the applied force.

02-09-2012

20140373637

CPU PRESSURE TESTING DEVICE - A CPU pressure testing device includes a mounting bracket, a CPU simulating member, a heat sink, and a pressure display. The mounting bracket includes a base portion and an engaging member connected to the base portion. The CPU simulating member includes a CPU simulating body and a pressure sensor placed on the CPU simulating body. The CPU simulating member is placed on the base portion. The heat sink is placed on the CPU simulating member to contact the pressure sensor. The pressure display is connected to the pressure sensor. The engaging member engages the base portion to press the heat sink onto the pressure sensor, and the pressure display displays a pressure value.

12-25-2014

20130298692

METHOD FOR MAKING TEST SPECIMEN AND TEST EQUIPMENT TO EVALUATE THE SAFETY OF PIPING - Provided herein is a test equipment for evaluating safety of a piping for use in nuclear power plants, the test equipment having a test specimen made of a same material as the piping, and having a notch cut from a first surface which is an end portion of the test specimen, with a crack formed at an end portion of the notch; and a load applier connected to the test specimen to apply a load in a direction perpendicular to a direction in which the notch is cut, wherein a pair of pin holes are connected to the load applier such that they are arranged to be distanced from each other along the direction of the load applied to the test specimen, and a central point is provided in a space between a second surface opposing the first surface and an end portion of the crack.

11-14-2013

20140096617

Apparatus for Measuring Failure Load of Model Truss Structures - An educational force application and force measurement apparatus is with a plurality of interchangeable workpiece mounting components is disclosed. The apparatus securely accepts a model structure (workpiece), secures a force measurement component between the model structure and a force application component, and applies an incrementally increasing force until the workpiece fails. A series of interchangeable upper workpiece mounting components allow the apparatus to measure the failure load on several different types of model structures.

04-10-2014

073838000

Rupture or burst strength of sheet material by transverse loading

4

20130125663

Cloth Evaluation Apparatus - A cloth evaluation apparatus can grasp the piercing property and the cutting property with a cloth in advance. The cloth evaluation apparatus includes a measuring member having, on its distal side, a measuring part to pass through a cloth; a cloth/measuring part moving means for moving the cloth or the measuring member so that the measuring part passes through the cloth; a cloth supporting means for supporting the cloth at around a passing-through point, in the cloth, of the measuring part from both sides of the cloth when the measuring part passes through the cloth; and a load detecting means for detecting a load being applied to the measuring member while the measuring part passes through the cloth.

05-23-2013

20100307261

APPARATUS FOR TESTING OBJECT STRENGTH - An apparatus for testing object strength includes a support platform, a force gauge for reading push or pull force exerted on an object, an installation mechanism for slidable installation of the force gauge on the support platform, an installation board supporting the object, a pull-push mechanism connected to the force gauge to be pushed or pulled by the force gauge and exert force on the object, and an adjustment mechanism. The adjustment mechanism includes a pedestal secured to the support platform, a slider slidably mounted to the pedestal, an adjustment rod pivotally mounted to the pedestal and threaded into the slider, and a manipulation member fixed to the adjustment rod. The manipulation member rotates the adjustment rod relative to the slider. Thus the slider slides relative to the pedestal. The installation board adjusts the object relative to the support platform.

12-09-2010

20150068319

EXPERIMENT METHOD FOR SIMULATED IMPACT-TYPE ROCK BURST - An experimental method for simulating an impact rock-burst, comprises the following steps: making a rock sample having a through hole or a half hole; loading initial static stresses of three directions onto the rock sample; then loading dynamic load(s) by 0.5-10 minutes, to determine whether a spalling phenomenon appears on an internal surface of the hole; if appears, and the rock sample is further damaged, determining and recording a failure course, if not appears, increasing the static stress(es) or the intensity of the dynamic load, then repeating the experiment procedure as far as rock sample goes into the failure course, then determining and recording the failure course, and ending the expierment. The impact rockburst induced by dynamic load is simulated on the rock sample successfully, and by studying mechanical mechanisms of the rock-burst, the present application lays foundations for gradually understanding and mastering the nature of real rock burst.

03-12-2015

20100307260

APPARATUS FOR TESTING OBJECT STRENGTH - An apparatus for testing strength of a corner portion of an object includes a support platform, an installation mechanism having a slidable plate mounted on the platform, a force gauge fixed to the slidable plate, a drive mechanism connected to the slidable plate to move the slidable plate, and a push-pull mechanism. The push-pull mechanism is connected to the force gauge to be pushed or pulled by the force gauge and exerts push or pull force on the corner portion of the object.

12-09-2010

073801000

Acoustic emission

3

20150053017

FATIGUE ASSESSMENT - Methods are disclosed relating to the assessment of fatigue damage in objects that include for example, subjecting a fatigued object to a cyclic mechanical stress, measuring a rate of temperature rise in the fatigued object, and assessing a degree of fatigue of the fatigued object based on the rate of temperature rise in the fatigued object. Methods of measuring internal structural characteristics and methods of correlating fatigue damage to results from excitation tests are also taught.

02-26-2015

20120125118

SYSTEM FOR MONITORING STRUCTURAL ASSETS - A system for detection of stress and deformation in a structural asset, for instance, one of reinforced concrete. An area on the asset may have a structure interface, such as a patch, attached to it with a fastening mechanism which may be a layer of an epoxy or other material, or be items such as screws, bolts, welds, or the like. One or more surface acoustic wave (SAW) strain sensors may be attached to the interface with an adhesive layer of epoxy or other material, or with mechanical items. Stress may be transmitted by the interface to the strain sensors. The sensors may be interrogated with a wire or wireless reader to obtain strain measurements. The measurements may indicate stress and deformations such as bulges and breaks in the asset. The measurements may also be a basis for determining location and extent of the stress and deformations.

MATERIAL TESTING SYSTEM - Provided is a material testing system that can prevent the influence of noise to obtain an adequate test result by reducing a variation in test force in a plastic region.

03-07-2013

20140331780

MATERIAL TESTING APPARATUS AND METHOD - A method of operating a material testing apparatus comprises conducting a test by applying a fluctuating load to a material specimen at a variable test frequency, measuring the temperature of the specimen during application of the load, and varying the test frequency on the basis of the measured temperature whereby to prevent the specimen from exceeding a predetermined maximum temperature during the test. A corresponding material testing apparatus is also provided.

11-13-2014

Entries

Document

Title

Date

20140260654

METHOD TO CARRY OUT ACCURATE FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS OVER A TANGLED MESH - A method is provided for carrying out finite element analysis. The method includes the step of meshing a domain under a field with a plurality of finite elements. Each overlapping finite element is detected and a stiffness contribution due to the plurality of finite elements is calculated. A stiffness contribution due to the overlapping finite elements is also calculated and combined with the stiffness contribution due to the plurality of finite element.

09-18-2014

20140260655

Apparatus for Testing Release Functionality of a Snow-Ski Binding and a Hand Tool Each Having an Axial-Force Indicator - A ski-binding testing apparatus that includes an axial-force indicator that indicates when a force applied to the testing apparatus has an axial component that is outside of an acceptable range. In one example, the apparatus includes a simulated foot, a force-transmitting structure coupled to the simulated foot, a handgrip coupled to the force-transmitting structure, and an axial-force indicator that indicates when a forced applied by a user to the handgrip exceeds a predetermined threshold. In one embodiment, the force-transmitting structure can include a torque wrench that includes a torque beam, the handgrip, and axial-force indicator. The torque wrench can be provided with a conventional work-engagement end, such as a socket-type receiver to allow the axial-force-indicating functionality to be used outside the context of a ski-binding testing apparatus.

09-18-2014

20100024564

CONNECTION STRENGTH TESTING DEVICE - A strength testing device for testing a connection strength between two articles when a connection interface therebetween located vertically and includes a blade member, a suspending member, and a handle. The suspending member includes a relay portion, a first connection portion and a second portion disposed at two opposite ends of the relay portion. The blade member includes a blade seating on one of the articles. A holder is formed on the second connection portion to hold a critical weight to break the two articles along the connection interface. A gravity line of the weight crosses with the blade.

02-04-2010

20130319127

NANOMECHANICAL TESTING SYSTEM - An automated testing system includes systems and methods to facilitate inline production testing of samples at a micro (multiple microns) or less scale with a mechanical testing instrument. In an example, the system includes a probe changing assembly for coupling and decoupling a probe of the instrument. The probe changing assembly includes a probe change unit configured to grasp one of a plurality of probes in a probe magazine and couple one of the probes with an instrument probe receptacle. An actuator is coupled with the probe change unit, and the actuator is configured to move and align the probe change unit with the probe magazine and the instrument probe receptacle. In another example, the automated testing system includes a multiple degree of freedom stage for aligning a sample testing location with the instrument. The stage includes a sample stage and a stage actuator assembly including translational and rotational actuators.

12-05-2013

20110314925

DEFLECTION TESTING APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR USING - An apparatus for testing the ability of a material or component to deflect comprises a table on which a component or workpiece made of the material is mounted. The workpiece is mounted using a suitable holding and supportive device. The supportive device includes a fulcrum on which the workpiece is partially supported. A loading device is used to apply a load to the workpiece. A computer or PLC in operable communication with the loading device is used to operate the apparatus and assess the ability of the material of the workpiece to deflect. A process used to assess the testing of a material comprises the steps of deflecting a workpiece of the material and measuring at least one of a force used to deflect the workpiece and a distance the workpiece is deflected.

12-29-2011

20090282927

Multi-sample Conditioning System - A multi-sample conditioning system may include a sample chamber for each sample or a sample chamber holding one or more samples. Multiple samples enable replication for statistical analysis and individual sample chambers enable individual nutrient flow profiles for each sample. A mechanical imbalance may be created when a sample chamber is removed or when samples of different stiffness are conditioned together. The mechanical imbalance may result in an undesired alteration of the desired conditioning profile and increase the variation in the conditioning profile applied to each sample. An asymmetric-loading support assembly provides a low friction support to reduce the undesired alteration of the desired conditioning profile applied to the samples and reduce unwanted reaction loads on the conditioning drive mechanisms. The asymmetric-loading support assembly preferably includes a flexure as the low-friction, high-stiffness support. Other examples that can provide low-friction, high-stiffness support include air bearings, magnetic bearings, and hydraulic bearings.

11-19-2009

20120216624

VISCOELASTICITY MEASURING APPARATUS - Provided is a viscoelasticity measuring apparatus in which an undesirable sample shape change such as a buckle caused as a result of thermal expansion of a sample is eliminated so as to prevent a deformation in a displacement detector direction due to the thermal expansion and a bending of the sample between a sample grasping member and a chuck, to thereby improve accuracy of measurement. In the viscoelasticity measuring apparatus, a thin part is provided in a part of an elastic arm for holding the sample so as to be easily deformed by a thermal expansion force of the sample. Thus, an undesirable shape change such as the buckle generated when the sample is expanded thermally is effectively eliminated, and necessary stiffness is maintained with respect to a load of the sample and hence accuracy of measurement is improved.

08-30-2012

20120216623

In situ roof covering test method & device - A machine for testing shingles and structure covering with a measuring devise supported above the surface, The way it measures shingle strength, Database of new undamaged shingle strength values based upon manufacture, shingle type and approval ASTM test method, How the devise attaches to the shingle specimen, Moveable and repeatable results, and Compares damaged and non-damaged shingles based upon their ASTM test method certification.

MECHANICAL STRENGTH TESTER - A mechanical strength tester includes a steel ball and a hollow cylinder including a supporting configuration. The diameter of the steel ball is less than the diameter of the cylinder. The supporting configuration is operable to support the steel ball on the top of the cylinder and release the steel ball to fall down in the cylinder under force of gravity.

01-12-2012

20120006124

METHODS, DEVICES, AND SYSTEMS RELATING TO A SENSING DEVICE - Methods, devices, and systems relating to a sensing device are disclosed. A device may comprise a structure including a first surface and a second, opposite surface, wherein the structure comprises one or more segments. Further, the device may include a plurality of sensors disposed on the structure, wherein each segment of the one or more segments comprises a first sensor of the plurality of sensors coupled to the first surface and an associated second sensor of the plurality of sensors coupled to the second surface. Moreover, each sensor of the plurality of sensors may be configured to measure a strain exhibited on an adjacent surface of the structure at an associated segment of the one or more segments.

01-12-2012

20110283805

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TESTING LOAD-BEARING CAPACITY - In an embodiment, a hydraulic jack is provided having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion attached to a first section of a structure and the second portion attached to a second section of the structure. When a pressurized fluid is forced between the first portion and the second portion, a load is transferred to the first section and the second section by the pressure of the fluid on the first portion and the second portion. The first section and the second section are forced apart by the load, thus creating or enlarging at least one void in the structure. The pressurized fluid fills or partially fills one or more of the at least one void, thereby increasing the surface area effectively normal to the direction of the load in contact with the pressurized fluid.

11-24-2011

20110283806

MECHANICAL LOAD TESTING SYSTEM - A system for determining load capacity for a photovoltaic module includes a clip to position a photovoltaic module surface at a load test position and a load test device proximate to the clip, including a pressure applicator and an actuator, wherein the actuator is capable of moving the pressure applicator toward the load test position.

11-24-2011

20090007689

MATERIAL TESTING MACHINE - A material testing machine is provided, in which a motor is used as a driving source of a loading mechanism, and the material testing machine can always perform a material test accurately, without requiring skilled operators, trial and error, or a longer time when setting control gains. A ratio K(t) of an inspection value F(t) of a control quantity to a displacement θ(t) of a motor

01-08-2009

20090188326

STRENGTH MEASURING METHOD OF HONEYCOMB STRUCTURE HAVING INSERTION HOLE - There is disclosed a method for measuring the strength of a honeycomb structure provided with an insertion hole preferably without generating any chipping. In the strength measuring method of the honeycomb structure, the strength is measured while a rubber plug is inserted into the insertion hole. The rubber plug has a hardness of 45 or more and 90 or less, a clearance between the inserted rubber plug and the inner surface of the insertion hole parallel to the depth direction of the insertion hole is 0.2 mm or more and 2.6 mm or less, and the protruding height of the inserted rubber plug from the peripheral surface of the honeycomb structure is 0.5 mm or more and 5 mm or less.

07-30-2009

20110138925

MATERIAL SAMPLE FOR TESTING BIAXIAL STRESS CONDITIONS - Described is a material sample for testing material properties under biaxial load as well as a method therefor. The material sample has a circular disk shape and, for rotation about the center line thereof, is provided with an integrally formed hub. The edge of the material sample and the hub are thicker than the ring section of the material sample located in between. In one embodiment, the ring section is designed with an annular concave fillet concentric to the hub and the concave fillet may extend from the edge to the hub and have a continuous curvature over its width. In the method, it is rotated about its center line at least at 100,000 rpm, preferably at 150,000 rpm±10,000 rpm.

06-16-2011

20110056303

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TESTING LOAD-BEARING CAPACITY UTILIZING A RING CELL - An annular assembly, or ring cell, is provided for testing the load bearing capacity of piles. The ring cell walls of the annular assembly can be made of stamped material. The ring cell walls can be an outer ring wall and an inner ring wall. Alternately, the ring cell walls can have a “U”-type shape cross-section including an outer ring wall, an inner ring wall, and a top wall. Fluid can be provided to the annular assembly through fluid supply lines into an expansion zone. The expansion zone can be a space having a bladder for filling with fluid. In another embodiment, the expansion zone can be a space between a filler material capable of withstanding high pressure separated with a membrane. The pressure of the fluid in the expansion zone can be monitored during testing.

TEST APPARATUS, COMPLIANCE MECHANISM, AND RELATED METHOD - A test apparatus configured to test connectors is provided. The test apparatus may include a fixture that holds a first connector and an actuator that holds a mating second connector. The actuator may axially displace the second connector in and out of engagement with the first connector. A compliance mechanism, which may be coupled to the fixture or the actuator, may provide one of the connectors with compliance in order to facilitate alignment of the connectors during engagement and disengagement thereof. The compliance mechanism may allow movement of one of the connectors perpendicularly to the actuation axis and/or angular movement about the actuation axis while preventing axial movement within the compliance mechanism. Accordingly, forces associated with engagement and disengagement of the connectors measured by a load cell may more closely resemble actual forces experienced by a user during use of the connectors.

12-19-2013

20120118071

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR DETECTING CROSS-LINKING IN A POLYMER - Methods and apparatus for detecting cross-linking in a polymer, wherein, in some exemplary implementations, the polymer may constitute an encapsulation layer for a photovoltaic module. In one example, a polymer sample is physically deformed, and sample information relating to a relaxation or a recovery of the polymer sample in response to the deformation is obtained. The sample information is then compared to reference information relating to cross-linking of the polymeric material so as to determine a degree of cross-linking in the tested polymer sample. In one aspect, such a determination of polymer cross-linking is achieved without adversely affecting a relevant functionality of the polymer/encapsulation layer (e.g., without destruction to the polymer/encapsulation layer).

05-17-2012

20090107250

APPARATUS AMD METHOD FOR MEASURING CHUCK ATTACHMENT FORCE - An apparatus and method for measuring a chuck attachment force are provided. The apparatus is capable of measuring loads applied to a measurement substrate, while the measurement substrate is detached from a chuck, and precisely calculating necessary force through a process of comparing and analyzing values of the measured loads. This may prevent errors in the application of attachment force during a semiconductor manufacturing process. In the semiconductor manufacturing process, when the substrate is detached from a chuck, the substrate may be prevented from being deformed or cracked.

04-30-2009

20090100938

ENGINE BLOCK DURABILITY TEST - The object of the invention is to provide an alternative method for durability testing of an engine block. The engine block comprises cylinder cavities, which cylinder cavities are separated from each other by intermediate walls, each intermediate wall comprising a bolt hole. The method comprises the step of: removing a test specimen from an area of the intermediate wall of the engine block, such that the test specimen comprises the bolt hole.

04-23-2009

20100180691

SENSOR-ENABLED GEOSYNTHETIC MATERIAL AND METHOD OF MAKING AND USING THE SAME - The present invention is directed to a sensor-enabled geosynthetic material for use in geosynthetic structures, a method of making the sensor-enabled geosynthetic material, and a method of measuring geometric strains of a geosynthetic product made from the sensor-enabled geosynthetic material. The sensor-enabled geosynthetic material includes a polymeric material and an electrically conductive filler. The polymeric material and an electrically conductive filler are combined to provide a sensor-enabled geosynthetic material. The sensor-enabled geosynthetic material having a predetermined concentration of the electrically conductive filler so as to provide the sensor-enabled geosynthetic material with an electrical conductivity and a strain sensitivity within the percolation region or slightly above it.

07-22-2010

20090056467

Method and System for Evaluating Rod Breakout Based on Tong Pressure Data - A method for evaluating rod quality and wellbore dynamics includes receiving information about the rod size and tong type for a rod pulling operation. Expected breakout pressures can be determined based on the rod size and/or tong type and can be input into an evaluation system. Upper and lower limits for acceptable rod breakout pressures can be calculated based on the expected breakout pressure and/or rod size. Actual rod breakout pressures can be evaluated while pulling rods from a well and compared to the upper and lower limits. Rod breakout pressures below the lower limit or above the upper limit can generate an alarm notifying a rig operator to evaluate the condition of the rod to determine if the rod can be reused. The rod breakout pressures can be recorded as breakout pressure data for further evaluation, including determinations of improper rod make-up and poor well conditions.

03-05-2009

20130247680

MATERIAL TESTING MACHINE - A material testing machine measuring strain of a tube-like test piece, comprising: a plurality of radial direction displacement detection units; an axis direction displacement detection unit; and a calculation unit that calculates the strain, wherein: each of first and second displacement meters of at least one of the radial direction displacement detection units comprises: a needle; a fixed frame; a movable frame; and a displacement sensor having a body part and a contact protruding from the body part, and wherein a tip of the contact contacts a stopper plate; the needle is oriented in the radial direction of the test piece; the needle protrudes from an end of the movable frame; displacement in the radial direction of the test piece is detected by detecting a moving amount of the needle; and the calculation unit calculates a curvature radius in the tube axis direction of the test piece.

09-26-2013

20120060620

DEVICE FOR AN AXIAL LOAD GAUGE - The invention relates to a device for investigating the statistical variability of an axial load gauge. The device is inserted into an axial load gauge and a load is gradually applied. At a preset load, a mechanism within the device controllably collapses and the applied load is safely transmitted through the structure of the device. A comparison of the load measured on the device load cell against that measured on the gauge load cell facilitates calculation of the repeatability and reproducibility of the axial load gauge. The test is non-destructible and highly repeatable; it permits comparison of load measurements made on different axial load gauge types and in different factories.

03-15-2012

20140366638

DYNAMIC VISCOELASTICITY AS A RAPID SINGLE-CELL BIOMARKER - The present invention generally relates to a method for determining the dynamic viscoelastic properties of cells, more particularly to a method for rapidly determining the dynamic viscoelastic properties of healthy and unhealthy cells by determining the phase shift be the application of a modulating force to the cells and the cells' response to the modulating force.

12-18-2014

20140202256

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING STRENGTH OF CYLINDRICAL STRUCTURES BY INTERNAL PRESSURE LOADING - In one embodiment, an apparatus, includes: a mandrel; an expansion cylinder, comprising: opposite first and second ends; an inner circumferential surface extending between the ends and characterized by an inner diameter, the inner circumferential surface defining a hollow cavity; an outer circumferential surface extending between the ends and characterized by an outer diameter that is greater than the inner diameter; and a plurality of slots extending from the inner circumferential surface to the outer circumferential surface and latitudinally oriented between the ends; and one or more base plates configured to engage one of the ends of the expansion cylinder. In another embodiment, a method includes: arranging an expansion cylinder inside a test cylinder; arranging a mandrel inside the expansion cylinder; applying a force to the mandrel for exerting a radial force on the expansion cylinder; and detecting one or more indicia of structural failure of the test cylinder.

07-24-2014

20140102211

Head assembly for a material testing machine and method of servicing the same - A testing machine includes a pair of vertical columns, a crosshead selectively positionable on the vertical columns, and a head assembly supported by and movable with the crosshead. The head assembly has an electric actuator, a support that can be selectively moved from a first position when the test machine is operated to a lowered position. The support supporting components are related to powering or controlling the electric actuator, said components are exposed for servicing in the lowered position.

04-17-2014

20130174665

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ALIGNING A TEST ARTICLE WITH A LOAD - An apparatus for orienting a test article relative to a loading axis includes a first member and a second member. The first member may have a concave surface. The second member may have a convex surface configured to engage the concave surface in a manner such that the second member is movable relative to the first member. The test article may be coupled to one of the first and second members such that relative movement thereof facilitates general alignment of the test article with the axial loading axis. The leveling apparatus may further include a plurality of positioning devices configured to facilitate adjustment of an orientation of the second number relative to the first member such that the alignment of the test article may be adjusted.

07-11-2013

20110005328

BI-AXIAL ELECTROMAGNETIC ACTUATOR - A biaxial electromagnetic actuator for a materials testing apparatus comprises a first electromagnetic actuator for imparting a linear force to an output shaft and a second, direct drive electromagnetic actuator for imparting a rotational force to the shaft. The shaft is mounted in two combination bearings which permit the shaft to move axially and rotationally. One of the bearings is located within a hollow cylindrical member which constitutes the armature of the direct drive actuator in order to provide a compact and symmetrical arrangement.

01-13-2011

20120090402

DEVICE AND METHOD TO SENSE BATTERY INTERNAL STATE - Provided is a device to sense battery internal state that can sense tiny elastic waves accompanying a reaction inside a battery and can accurately ascertain changes in battery internal state. The device (

04-19-2012

20120090401

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TESTING LOAD-BEARING CAPACITY - In an embodiment, a hydraulic jack is provided having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion attached to a first section of a structure and the second portion attached to a second section of the structure. When a pressurized fluid is forced between the first portion and the second portion, a load is transferred to the first section and the second section by the pressure of the fluid on the first portion and the second portion. The first section and the second section are forced apart by the load, thus creating or enlarging at least one void in the structure. The pressurized fluid fills or partially fills one or more of the at least one void, thereby increasing the surface area effectively normal to the direction of the load in contact with the pressurized fluid.

04-19-2012

20120090400

SENSOR-ENABLED GEOSYNTHETIC MATERIAL AND METHOD OF MAKING AND USING THE SAME - The present invention is directed to a sensor-enabled geosynthetic material for use in geosynthetic structures and geosyntapes, a method of making the sensor-enabled geosynthetic material and the geosyntapes, and a method of measuring geometric strains of a geosynthetic product made from the sensor-enabled geosynthetic material. The sensor-enabled geosynthetic material includes a polymeric material and an electrically conductive filler. The polymeric material and an electrically conductive filler are combined to provide a sensor-enabled geosynthetic material. The sensor-enabled geosynthetic material having a predetermined concentration of the electrically conductive filler so as to provide the sensor-enabled geosynthetic material with an electrical conductivity and a strain sensitivity within the percolation region or slightly above it.

04-19-2012

20140318264

VEHICLE TEST APPARATUS AND VEHICLE TEST SYSTEM - A vehicle test apparatus includes: a test article installation vehicle body to which four axles corresponding to four wheels that are a left front wheel, a right front wheel, a left rear wheel and a right rear wheel are attached, and on which a test article is installed; a first motion base that supports the test article installation vehicle body, and that allows the test article installation vehicle body to make motions of six degrees of freedom; and four second motion bases each of which supports a corresponding one of the axles, and each of which allows a corresponding one of the axles to make motions of six degrees of freedom.

10-30-2014

20140130603

DEVICE AND METHOD RELATING TO A SENSING DEVICE - Methods, devices, and systems relating to a sensing device are disclosed. A device may comprise a structure including a first surface and a second, opposite surface, wherein the structure comprises one or more segments. Further, the device may include a plurality of sensors disposed on the structure, wherein each segment of the one or more segments comprises a first sensor of the plurality of sensors coupled to the first surface and an associated second sensor of the plurality of sensors coupled to the second surface. Moreover, each sensor of the plurality of sensors may be configured to measure a strain exhibited on an adjacent surface of the structure at an associated segment of the one or more segments.

05-15-2014

20100139413

Strain sensor and corresponding sensor arrangement - The invention relates to a sensor as a built-in component of an object, especially an elastic object, the sensor comprising a polymer material containing electroconductive additives according to the invention and thereby acting as an expansion sensor (

06-10-2010

20090249886

TESTING APPARATUS OF MECHANICAL ENDURANCE - An apparatus for testing mechanical endurance includes a bed for installing a workpiece, a clipping imitator capable of clipping a clipping ring of the workpiece, a hinging imitator capable of engaging with a hinge of the workpiece thereby making the workpiece tend to rotate, a cam, an oscillating rod following the cam, a pressure sensor capable of receiving pressure from the workpiece, a first arithmometer for taking count of pressure dropping the pressure sensor detects, and a second arithmometer for taking count of cam cycles. The oscillating rod includes first and second arms. The second arm engages the cam and can impel the clipping imitator to detach from the clipping ring. The first arm can press the workpiece down. In a cam cycle, if the workpiece does not break, the count of the first arithmometer equals to the count of the second arithmometer; or if breaks, the counts are different.

10-08-2009

20140026672

SAMPLE FOR ELECTRON MICROSCOPY AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A sample for electron microscopy includes a base member and a sensor. The sensor is configured to measure data on the sample. The sensor includes an insulating member and a measuring element. The insulating member is deposited in or near an area of observation that is defined on a surface of the base member. The measuring element is deposited on a surface of the insulating member or over the surface of the base member and the surface of the insulating member.

01-30-2014

20120227508

Test apparatus for the mechanical testing of components and material samples - The invention relates to a test apparatus and a test method for the testing of samples by mechanical action upon the sample. The test apparatus comprises a sample region and a cylinder, which is movable in relation to the sample region, and at least two linear drives, each with a first drive part, which is fixed in place with respect to an end of the sample region, which faces it, and with a second drive part, which is movable in relation to the first drive part and is driven and which is fixed in place with respect to the cylinder. Advantageously, the movement axes of the linear drives run parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cylinder. In a preferred embodiment, a test set-up of the test apparatus has a rigid load frame.

09-13-2012

20110214507

BOND STRENGTH TESTER WITH SWITCHABLE BACKLASH CONTROL - A bond strength testing apparatus comprising a main body, a test tool mount for holding a test tool, and an axial drive mechanism including a screw and nut assembly. The drive mechanism couples the test tool mount to the main body and allows for relative movement between the test tool mount and the main body in an axial direction. A backlash control element is coupled to the main body and the test tool mount, and, in operation, biases the test tool mount relative to the main body in an axial direction. The backlash control element is switchable between a first state in which the test tool mount is biased in a first axial direction by the backlash control element, and a second state in which either the test tool mount is biased in a second axial direction by backlash control element, or the backlash control element applies no biasing force to test tool mount. The apparatus can be automated to apply the appropriate backlash control for a particular, selected test type.

09-08-2011

20130145859

Test Fixture for Strip Samples - A test fixture for applying a prescribed displacement to a material includes a first and a second portion, a first and second adjustable pin, and an actuator. The first portion includes a first pin that engages the material at a first location on the material. A second pin engages the material at a second location on the material. A third pin engages the material at a third location on the material. The first adjustable pin holds the material against the second pin at the second location. The second adjustable pin holds the material against the third pin at the third location. The actuator is adapted to configure a relative position between the first pin and the second and third pins.

ENTROPY-BASED IMPACT LOAD IDENTIFICATION - Methods and apparatus for identifying the location of the load on a structure. Various embodiments include calculating a plurality of potential loading sites, assessing the statistical order of each of those predictions, and selecting regions of the structure where the load most likely occurred based on the orderliness (or randomness) of the assessments.

11-14-2013

20120291561

Pipeline Insertion Tool - The apparatus mounts on a high pressure pipe and moves a witness coupon into and out of the pipe. A coupon holder assembly is secured to a driver. A coupon rod is engaged within the coupon holder assembly and the driver, wherein, an upper end of the coupon rod is engaged with the driver and a lower end of the coupon rod is positioned within the coupon holder assembly but may be driven in translation downwardly and out of the coupon holder assembly. A clamp may be engaged with the coupon rod securing it in a fixed position when the coupon rod is not being moved. A ball valve is used to isolate the apparatus from the high pressure pipe, and once isolated, a bleed valve is used to vent to atmospheric.

11-22-2012

20120073382

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR TESTING THE STABILITY OF A POLE - The invention relates to a method for testing the stability of a mast standing on a substrate or of a similarly standing system. According to such a method for testing the stability of a standing system, the natural frequency of a mast to be examined is determined. By the aid of the natural frequency, a measure for the stability is determined computationally and/or numerically and evaluated on the basis of the determined measure for stability. A device is comprised of the means to be able to implement such a testing method in automatized manner.

03-29-2012

20120085177

METHOD FOR TESTING LIFT EQUIPMENT - The method is for testing load equipment. A trolley is provided that has a housing with an upwardly sloping front segment and an upwardly sloping rear segment. Upwardly directed weights are stacked side-by-side on the front and rear segments so that the weights lean towards each other. The trolley is stopped by engaging the brake support against the ground so that the front segment is substantially parallel to the ground. Weights are added or removed from the trolley by downwardly inserting or upwardly pulling, respectively, the weights without removing any of the wheels. The trolley is connected to lifting equipment. The lifting equipment lifts the trolley from the ground.

04-12-2012

20130145858

APPARATUS FOR INTERFACING WITH A TEST SPECIMEN - The disclosure is directed at a system for applying a displacement, strain, stress or load to a test specimen. The system includes an interface manufactured from a deformable material which is connected to an actuator and to the test specimen. Application of a displacement by the actuator causes the test specimen to displace in multiple directions.

06-13-2013

20140020475

VISCOELASTICITY MEASURING APPARATUS - A viscoelasticity measuring apparatus that measures viscoelasticity of a measurement target with high precision is provided. The measuring apparatus includes: a casing; a surface contact part provided in the casing and brought into surface contact with skin; a ball indenter that moves toward the skin more than the surface contact part and is pushed into the skin; a driving unit that supports the ball indenter and moves the ball indenter toward the skin; a load cell whose right end side is fixed to the casing and left end side supports the driving unit, the load cell detecting a pushing load that pushes the ball indenter into the skin; and a control unit that obtains displacement of the ball indenter.

TEST METHOD, TEST RIGS AND CONTROL SYSTEM - A method for load relieving a test object, wherein a load is applied by a multiplicity of hydraulic devices positioned side by side each introducing a partial load into the test object such that the test object has a minimum deflection in an area close to its fixation and a maximum deflection in an area far away from the fixation, wherein the load is reduced sequentially from the maximum deflection to the minimum deflection. A test rig is provided that enables an autonomous and non-synchronical load relief of a test object based on pressure difference. A test rig is provided that enables an autonomous and non-synchronical load relief of a test object based on a delay time and a control system for such test rigs.

04-03-2014

20140208861

System and Method for Improving a Workpiece - A method of modifying a workpiece includes providing a workpiece, determining a load stress profile associated with a load condition, the load stress profile comprising a load stress greater than a material stress limit of the workpiece, determining a residual stress profile, the residual stress profile comprising a residual stress less than the material stress limit of the workpiece, and providing the workpiece with the residual stress profile, wherein a sum of the load stress and the residual stress is less than the material stress limit of the workpiece.

07-31-2014

20130061682

SHOCK TEST DEVICE - The invention provides a shock test device suitable for an expansion slot of a computer system. The shock test device includes a mainboard, a structure unit and a detection module. The mainboard has a connecting finger electrically connected to the expansion slot. The structure unit is disposed at the mainboard for simulating a weight and a supporting structure. The detection module is coupled to at least one pin of the connecting finger for detecting a touch condition between the connecting finger and the expansion slot so as to produce a warning signal. In this way, the shock test device can detect whether or not a link plug-in in a host computer (for example, the link between the expansion slot and the connecting finger portion of the shock test device) is disconnected due to shocking or unseen disconnected and then reconnected again.

03-14-2013

20140053653

Apparatuses, Systems, And Methods For Testing A Mattress - Apparatuses, systems, or methods for testing a mattress system are described herein. Apparatuses and systems can include a robotic arm assembly and a mannequin to simulate natural human motion or movements that occur during use of a mattress system. The apparatuses and systems described herein can test a mattress system for firmness and/or durability. Also described herein are methods for testing a mattress system with a robotic arm assembly and a mannequin.

02-27-2014

20130276545

MEASUREMENT APPARATUS FOR MEASURING ELASTICITY COEFFICIENT OF COIL SPRING - A measurement apparatus includes a workbench, a loading mechanism fixed to the workbench, a deformation measuring mechanism, and a stress meter. The deformation measuring mechanism includes a slide beam, and a displacement meter. The loading mechanism includes a guiding shaft extending through a to-be-tested coil spring. A measuring pole of the stress meter, the sliding beam, and the guiding shaft are coaxial. Opposite ends of the coil spring are respectively abutted the slide beam and the loading mechanism. A measuring pole of the displacement meter is connected to the sliding beam. When the stress meter slides towards the slide beam, the displacement of the detecting pole of the displacement member is equal to a change of a length of the coil spring, and recorded by the displacement meter, and a value of a force applied to the coil spring is recorded by the stress meter.

10-24-2013

20140230560

THREE DIMENSIONAL PIEZOELECTRIC MEMS - Method and apparatus for a piezoelectric apparatus are provided. In some embodiments, a method for fabricating a piezoelectric device may include etching a series of vertical trenches in a top substrate portion, depositing a first continuous conductive layer over the trenches and substrate, depositing a continuous piezoelectric layer over the first continuous conductive layer such that the piezoelectric material has trenches and sidewalls, depositing a second continuous conductive layer over the continuous piezoelectric layer, etching through the vertical trenches of the first continuous conductive layer, continuous piezoelectric layer, second continuous conductive layer, and top substrate portion into a bottom substrate portion, etching a series of horizontal trenches in the bottom substrate portion such that the horizontal trenches and vertical trenches occupy a continuous free space and allow movement of a piezoelectric MEMS device created by the above method in three dimensions.